Starbucks To Customers: Leave Guns Home

Starbucks is asking customers to leave their guns at home when they stop by for a cup of coffee.

Company CEO Howard Schultz says the policy change is a respectful request, not an outright ban. Schultz says Starbucks stores should be places where everyone feels "relaxed and comfortable," and the presence of a weapon can be unsettling for many customers.

Schultz said the company's usual approach is to allow "open carry" where such laws exist, but the debate over those law has become increasingly uncivil and, in some cases, threatening. (Metro Networks Inc)